The report, written in partnership with the Russian LGBT Network, identifies cases of discrimination touching many aspects of the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals and activists in Russia. An analysis of more than two decades of jurisprudence, the report explores how courts have responded to a wide range of issues, including hate crime, freedom of expression (including the notorious “anti-propaganda” laws), family rights and discrimination at work. Its conclusions are stark.

The report argues that while there is some positive judicial practice to be welcomed, on the whole courts have repeatedly sanctioned discriminatory laws and actions and, in many instances, judicial reasoning is based on homophobic stereotypes. It concludes that there is an urgent need for action to protect LGBT individuals from discrimination in Russia and a need for the international community to hold the state to account.

Panel of SpeakersThe Equal Rights Trust will be joined at the launch by a distinguished panel of speakers. Key findings from the report will be presented. The expert panel will discuss the role of the Russian judiciary in upholding fundamental rights and reflect on recent developments and debates in the recognition of LGBT rights internationally.

Reserve Your PlaceThe report launch will take place at SW1.17, The Dickson Poon School of Law, Somerset House East Wing, King's College London, Strand, London, WC2R 2LS from 6.30pm – 7.45pm.

We hope you will be able to stay for drinks and canapes served after the launch where there will be the opportunity to meet with the report’s authors, speakers and fellow academics, lawyers, activists and others.

Tickets for the event are £7 (£4 for students) and we encourage you to book your place early to avoid disappointment. Purchase a Ticket

Rights in Russia is a leading resource for those who want to know more about the human rights situation in Russia, about Russian human rights defenders and their organisations. At a time when the Russian government’s indifference and hostility often places the work and lives of the country’s human rights defenders in jeopardy, Rights in Russia believes their voices need and deserve to be widely heard, by civil society and by governments around the world. Its four main goals are to: 1) to provide information; 2) to promote international discussion and debate; 3) to act as a channel for Russian human rights defenders and organisations to reach an audience outside Russia; and 4) to promote knowledge of, and contacts with, Russian human rights groups.